Visiting the Yamadera Risshakuji Temple in the Yamagata prefecture is akin to seeking out the Vatican City in Rome - it’s just that iconic. And before you can even step foot inside, 1,015 steps stand between you and one of Japan's most beautiful temples.
The climb is said to be a "meditative" experience, but don’t beat yourself up if you find yourself too busy catching your breath to achieve any kind of spiritual elevation. But, let me just say that the view at the top is well worth every drop of sweat, so don’t let the 1,015 steps up deter you.
Interestingly, I did feel that my ascent up this Tendai Buddhist temple had a meditative quality to it. After a while, the motion of my legs became clockwork, and my mind was more taken by all the sculptures, stone lanterns, and the beauty of the cedar trees towering above.
On the way up, you'll spot a massive rock that has dozens of coins almost embedded into its surface. It is supposedly shaped like Amida Buddha, and legend says if you manage to find the Buddha’s face, you’ll be very lucky. None of us managed to do so, though maybe you’ll have better luck!
Yamadera Temple
Price: 300 Yen (~S$3.69)
Address: 999-3301 Yamagata-ken, Yamagata-shi, Yamadera, 4456-1
Opening Hours: 8AM-5PM, Daily
How to get there:
You can reach the base of Yamadera Temple in about 7 minutes by walking from JR Yamadera Station.
Article by TheSmartLocal.com
Address: Yamadera Temple
Website: http://www.yamaderakankou.com/
Phone: 023-695-2002
